What is pelvic girdle pain?

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) involves the joints, ligaments, and muscles of the pelvis — including the sacroiliac joints and pubic symphysis. It is particularly common during pregnancy (affecting up to 20% of pregnant women) due to hormonal changes increasing ligamentous laxity, but also occurs outside pregnancy in those with sacroiliac joint dysfunction or hypermobility. It ranges from mild to severely debilitating.

What complementary approaches help PGP in pregnancy?

Specialised physiotherapy addressing pelvic stability is the primary evidence-based intervention. A pelvic support belt can reduce load through the sacroiliac joints. Acupuncture has good evidence specifically for pregnancy-related PGP. Aquatic exercise reduces gravitational load on the pelvis. Working with practitioners experienced in pregnancy and pelvic health is important.

Which activities should be avoided with PGP?

Activities involving asymmetric pelvic loading — single-leg standing, climbing stairs one at a time, breaststroke swimming, and carrying loads on one side — typically aggravate PGP. Keeping movements symmetrical and within a pain-free range is an important self-management principle.

Does PGP resolve after pregnancy?

For most women, PGP improves significantly after delivery as hormonal levels stabilise. A proportion experience persistent symptoms postnatally, particularly where pain was severe or poorly managed during pregnancy. Postnatal pelvic floor physiotherapy and graduated return to exercise are recommended for ongoing symptoms.

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Pelvic girdle pain

Pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy involves discomfort in the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, or surrounding structures, affecting mobility and daily function. Physiotherapy, osteopathy, targeted exercise, and suppo

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Reviewed by Dr. Ian Henderson · Microbiobial Health & Medicine26 March 2026Emerging evidence

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Pelvic girdle pain is most commonly experienced during pregnancy or the postpartum period as a deep, aching, or stabbing pain in the pelvic area — particularly at the pubic symphysis (at the front) or across the sacroiliac joints (at the back)
Many women describe difficulty with everyday activities: walking, climbing stairs, turning over in bed, and getting in and out of a car
A clicking or grinding sensation in the pelvis is frequently reported
The pain often worsens with one-legged activities
Many women find it poorly understood by healthcare providers and feel dismissed when seeking help, particularly when symptoms persist after birth

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Related Conditions

Musculoskeletal Pain

Lower Back Pain

Postural Imbalance

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